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RESTAURANT REVIEW: HAPPENSTANCE, THE IDEAL PLACE FOR PLEASING EVERYONE

Editorial Team
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RESTAURANT REVIEW: HAPPENSTANCE, THE IDEAL PLACE FOR PLEASING EVERYONE

Short, snappy menus are all the rage in the capital these days. Minimal choice, minimum fuss, one dish, one cuisine, bish-bash-bosh and you’re out of the door, full and happy.

There is another way though. Whisper it, but sometimes, we actively like a bit of choice. Sometimes, just sometimes, putting your faith in fate, praying to the gourmet gods and relying on luck to line your stomach is a risk.

Enter The Happenstance….

Idea

This groovy restaurant of the ever popular Drake and Morgan group, nestled into the culinary mecca of Paternoster Square, has a rich and diverse clientele and a menu to match.

Foot weary tourists and families seeking refuge from trudging around St. Paul’s rub shoulders with ladies doing lunch and business folk conducting deals. This rich tapestry leads to a menu of range and reach.

Location

Cast your gaze out of large, sun-inviting windows and you’re greeted with a stunning view of St. Paul’s Cathedral in striking distance. Pop-up food stalls enticingly serving the niche food of which Happenstance’s menu pays homage – Turkish lamajhuns, wild fish burgers, Vietnamese street food – line the street outside.  It’s an inviting area to spend the day imbibing and instagramming.

Atmosphere

The place has a boisterousness and buzz lent by the happy chatter of the working lunch. Tourist footfall explains the mass-appeal menu. The stylish outdoor terrace is fantastic for soaking up the sun and there is also a pleasant, more relaxed café/bar area for those wishing to rest and recharge, but not fill themselves up for the afternoon’s traipse.

Food

As you’ve probably surmised by now, there is a great range of the classics. Anyone could find something they like here, and vegetarians are well catered for, always a big plus in our book.

To begin with, we enjoyed crispy squid, which was just that – crispy and squid – but well cooked and certainly not of the packet or freezer. Just as the dish should be and very tasty indeed.

A chorizo scotch egg was fantastic – yolk in the middle offering the ooze you’d hope for, a chorizo coating with bit of gentle heat, and rich, vibrant bravas sauce. The Spaniards on the table adjacent seemed to agree that this was the real deal.

The Wagu burger offered that hint of luxury and depth which normal beef just doesn’t come close to.  If anything, we’d have appreciated a slightly less well-done patty – we always err on the side of pink – but the blame falls on us for not asking. Chips were excellent and felt like a chef’s knife had been involved rather than a freezer bag.

Seared tuna salad with papaya salad racked up further air miles. It felt very much a lunch dish, all lightness and zip.

The Eton Mess suited the summery, light theme, with the addition of fresh mint bringing a little punch to the party. The afagato was so boozy we left merry and unsteady – no complaints here!

Drink

The wine list was accommodating and reasonable, with choices between £19 and £40. With summer in our step, we asked to be guided towards something bright and sunny. A French rose at £29 was produced and was an inspired choice. With over 60 wines available to choose from, there really is something for everyone at Happenstance.  If you’re a Londoner looking to unwind after a long day at the office, we suggest coming here for a cocktail or two – they do a good Pisco Sour.

Must try

The scotch egg the highlight – an assured piece of technique which had pleasing heat and seasoning.

Why go

The perfect choice for an inclusive lunch, where no one will go hungry and everyone will leave happy. Don’t rely on chance – put your trust in Happenstance!

Address: 10 Paternoster Sq., London EC4M 7DX, UK

Website:  drakeandmorgan.co.uk

IDEAL dined at as a guest of Happenstance and received a complimentary meal. 

4 IDEAL INNOVATIONS INFLUENCING THE FUTURE OF FASHION

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL INNOVATIONS INFLUENCING THE FUTURE OF FASHION

What does the future look like for fashion and tailoring? Designers are constantly coming up with innovative new ideas and manufacturing processes that will reshape the fashion industry as we know it, and it looks like shoppers are set to benefit. From sustainable initiatives to technological inventions, with the help of CT shirts, retailers of the morning suit, we reveal 4 IDEAL innovations influencing the future of fashion. 

COLOUR CHANGING FABRIC

Is ‘the dress’ gold? Or is it blue. It’s black! Nope, we’re not talking about that viral photo. Instead, we’re celebrating the not-too-distant end to buying multiple versions of the same suit in different colours. A thing of the past, indeed, as colour-changing fabrics are here to shake up the fashion industry. The research behind it is ever advancing and there are a few ongoing projects developing the idea, all harnessing different scientific skills to reach, ultimately, the same end results.

One of the projects, explored by scientists at the University of Michigan, is looking at incorporating tiny crystals that react differently depending on the wavelength of light. This affects the crystal’s formation and how they look in terms of colour to others. Other research, carried out in Montreal, is investigating how electricity from human movement can power electric fabric to change its colour. It appears that the research is a long way from reaching our high streets, but when it arrives, we’ll be tickled pink. Or blue. Or purple.

SUSTAINABLE FABRICS

There’s a huge problem with the fashion industry today, and it’s sustainability. Fast fashion, where trends come and go more swiftly than you can try them on, results in too many clothes ending up as landfill. And no, that’s not our nickname for TK Maxx.

However, efforts are being made to make fashion more sustainable. 2018’s Global Change Awards saw five ground breaking innovations who are striving to create a waste-free fashion industry. From reusable fabric, which when heated makes buttons and zips fall off so the fabric can easily be used again, to fabric made out of crop waste, the future of fashion will focus on the environmentally friendly.

SELF HEALING FABRICS

Have you ever spent loads on a piece of clothing, only to catch it on something sharp (a cartoonish, protruding nail perhaps) and damage the material?  The latest technology in textiles is addressing this issue through the development of self-healing fabric. It works by coating regular fabric in a special solution that, when ripped, is able to melt back together at low temperatures. Other research has founded that E. coli bacteria has self-replicating properties and this is being explored in order to discover if it can be used to knit broken fabric back together. Both promising developments for clumsy clothes fans.  

WEARABLE PAYEMENT GADGETS

Wearable payment gadgets are something that researchers and corporations are spending a lot of time exploring. For anything that quickens the act of capitalism deserves as much money thrown at it as possible. Of course, we already have the ability to pay contactless with a smart watch or phone but that’s just not enough. After all, who wants to move a limb to facilitate splurging? Not us.

MasterCard, have teamed up with fashion designer Adam Selman to explore the idea of inserting a microchip into clothing, perhaps in the sleeve of a jacket or into a bag — allowing you to pay for items with even less effort. Hackers everywhere take note.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO BALANCE YOUR MOOD DURING BAD WEATHER

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO BALANCE YOUR MOOD DURING BAD WEATHER

Looking outside and seeing rain lashing against the window rarely puts people in a good mood, but can gloomy weather really brings us down? The answer, quite simply, is yes,

If you feel the onset of low mood on a dreary day, it’s not your imagination. Research has shown that when it’s dark and miserable outside, it has a negative effect on your mood and emotions. A lowering of moods during winter has apparently been recorded as far back as 1845. Now named seasonal affective disorder (SAD), the condition is a type of depression that happens to sufferers at certain times of the year — most notably autumn and winter.

So what can you do if your mood starts to drop when the weather outside is frightful? With the help of Fulton Umbrellas, an industry leader and premium supplier of clear umbrellas, here are 5 IDEAL ways to balance your mood during bad weather.

SPEND TIME WITH YOUR FRIENDS

Rain negatively affects our social lives and according to experts, can risk leaving us feeling isolated, frustrated and downbeat. If it’s raining heavily and consistently, we’re more inclined to cancel plans to physically meet our friends and family, or have them cancel on us, which could leave to a less fulfilled social life. Human contact is fundamental to our mental well-being; without it, a number of pathologies including depression and social anxiety can affect us. So next time it’s raining, make plans to meet up with your friends and family, somewhere safe, warm and indoors.

EXERCISE

Did you know that rain can actually cause pain? We’re not joking. When it rains the reduction in atmospheric pressure means bodily fluids can move from blood vessels to tissues, causing pressure on the nerves and joints. This can lead to increased pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Also, during colder months, our bodies are forced to work harder to keep us warm, which includes raising our heart rates. This means that more energy is diverted to achieve this aim, causing us to potentially feel lethargic when the temperature drops.

The answer? Exercise more. Not only will your body thank you for it but, as mental health organisation Mind state, getting exercise is a contributor to sound mental health. What’s more, this scientific study found that getting active holds ‘the promise of better mental health outcomes’.

LISTEN TO THE RADIO

If the weather is gloomy outside, simply turning on the radio could make you feel better. According to the Radio Advertising Bureau (declare a conflict of interests, perhaps?) listening to the radio makes people happier and boosts levels of energy. As we’ve already mentioned, we are social animals, and even listening to radio presenters interacting with one another can make us feel part of something, which in turn helps to generate happiness. Furthermore, according to the Discovery Channel, listening to music causes the brain to release dopamine, a feel-good chemical which instantly makes us feel elated.

LET SOME LIGHT IN

When the weather is bad, it can be tempting to crawl into bed and turn the lights off, re-emerging from hibernation when the skies have cleared. However, light can boost serotonin which in turn elevates mood. So, in the words of a certain omnipresent someone, let their be light. Even if it’s cold, take yourself outside for a short stroll. You’ll be exposed to UV rays which can help boost your mood. If that’s not sufficient exposure to the good stuff, consider light therapy, where you’re exposed to artificial light which mimics natural outdoor light.

MAKE THE MOST OUT OF THE SUNSHINE

Did you know that the closer you live to the equator, the less vulnerable you are to the effects of SAD? Sunshine gives our morale a much needed boost by raising the level of a certain brain chemical called serotonin — believed to regulate our mood, anxiety and social functioning. Oh, and less sunlight means your body generates lower levels of vitamin D — essential for good health and a subsequent happy mindset. Therefore it’s important to look for ways in which you can increase your exposure to sunshine. To help your body get plenty of sunlight, save up for a winter-sun holiday and spend as much time outdoors as you can.

 

 

4 IDEAL PLACES TO USE A CONSOLE TABLE IN YOUR HOME

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL PLACES TO USE A CONSOLE TABLE IN YOUR HOME

For such a useful piece of furniture, it’s surprising just how many people don’t know what a console table actually is. *googles term*. Nope, it’s not the surface of your old Playstation used to balance the odd cuppa on. Whilst most people have them in their homes, the console is a furniture piece that is often overlooked and taken for granted.

But not only does the size of a console table give it a whole range of different purposes, they’re also perfect for homes of demanding compact necessity as well as larger spaces requiring a little minimalism. Whether you’re looking for inspiration to spice up your console table, or you simply need some advice on where to put yours, here are 4 IDEAL places to use a console table in your home.

WARM & WELCOMING 

Introducing a console table to your hallway or the entrance to your home makes great interior design sense for a number of reasons. Firstly, having a space to keep important items such as your house and car keys, post and letters, as well as other miscellaneous stuff that comes through your front door, is simply really useful. You’ll also find that having a console table in the hallway provides the perfect pedastool for a stylish lamp to brighten the area up, as well as giving you space to display beautiful family photos that people will see the moment they enter your home.

In short, positioning your oak console table in the hallway can make such a difference to the overall look and feel of this part of the home, especially when it’s traditionally a functional space that lacks character and style if not decorated properly and as such, simply passed through.

ENHANCED ENTERTAINMENT

The majority of homes have a television in the living area, and this provides the perfect opportunity for a bold focal point to bring some character to the room. Whilst the most obvious choice for holding the television may be a stylish TV stand, this is where a console table can come in very handy, as it’s multipurpose and carries great versatility.

Using your console table to hold the television is ideal for saving a substantial amount of space, whilst also keeping the room neat and compact. With so many different console table designs available, with added shelving and drawers, you can find the perfect design to suit your requirements and make the perfect choice to enhance the entertainment features within the living room, games room or even bedroom!

WORKING WONDERS

Having a home office is a luxury lots of people would love, whether that’s to work from home or to simply have a dedicated space to complete some ‘life admin’ tasks. It can become a task and a half having to balance bills and numerous pieces of paper in one place, staying organised at the same time, which is why it’s really good to have an area in the home to dedicate to this.

Whether you have the space for an office, or you literally have a small area of the kitchen to work with, by adding a console table to this space you can give yourself some essential surface real estate to hold your laptop, computer and paperwork, whilst still keeping the room looking stylish and neat.

BEDROOM BEAUTY

One of the most popular uses for a console table within the bedroom is to provide you with a practical space for getting ready. Much like a dressing table or vanity desk, a console table is perfect for adding some storage to the room, whilst keeping the style and character clear and consistent. You can dress your console table with a chic mirror, some personal touches such as ornaments and photos and even some fresh flowers to brighten up the area. Job done.

5 IDEAL BEAUTY TIPS FOR FESTIVAL SEASON

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL BEAUTY TIPS FOR FESTIVAL SEASON

With Coachella kicking off this weekend in California, one thing’s for sure – festival season is officially here!  Whether you’re looking to go all out and spend a couple of days camping and partying away, or opting for a one-day affair, make sure you’re looking and feeling your best.

Celebrity make-up artist, and EcoTools brand ambassador, Justine Jenkins has shared with IDEAL her go-to guide for staying ahead of the pack this festival season – from this year’s biggest beauty trends, to the essentials to pop in your makeup bag.

GO GLITTER

Glitter is a must have during festival season. The perfect time to mix up your go-to looks, festivals are an ideal occasion to get creative with your makeup. But remember to be kind to the environment, and choose a biodegradable glitter brand like Eco Stardust, as traditional glitter is made from plastic. My two ultimate essentials for applying glitter are either an adhesive gel or a thick balm, along with a small brush. 

Apply the balm or gel wherever you want to sparkle, then dip the tip of the brush into your chosen glitter and apply a little at a time until you reach your desired look. If you want to try an alternative to glitter, use a metallic foil leaf or tiny stars that you can stick on your face and body.

NEVERY SAY NO TO NEON

As the recent fashion weeks have shown, neon colours are set to be huge this summer and will work brilliantly for a festival look. Neon oranges, blues, greens and yellows were all over the catwalk, and they look great against sun kissed skin. Whether you’re opting for traditional powder eyeshadows, or UV paints and gels, mix and match the colours for a varied look, with blue on the eyes, and orange on the lips. If you want more of a subtle neon look, try placing one dot of colour in the centre of your lower lash line.

BIG & BOLD COLOURS 

There’s no better time to be big and bold with colour that at a festival. Get creative and use different coloured eyeshadows on your eyelids and lower lash line. Experiment with different colours, and don’t worry too much about matching colours – the idea is that they don’t match at all, so the bolder the better!

MULTI-TASKING PRODUCTS

Multi-tasking products are always a must at festivals. Using the same product on your lids, cheeks and lips will not only save on time, but also essential outfit space in your bag. A great multi tasker is a natural moisturising lipstick, which you can dab on your cheeks and lips, and smooth on your lids for a glossy, naturally healthy look

LIP TINTS AND OILS

Lip tints and oils are one of the biggest beauty trends of 2018, so this festival season, ditch the matte lipsticks and give a bright tint or stain a go instead. As an added benefit, you won’t have to worry about reapplying, as they wear down naturally leaving a lovely flush of colour. They also keep your lips moisturised, leaving them looking glossy and kissable for hours without reapplication.

BE PREPARED

Be smart at festivals, keep hydrated and always take provisions for all weather, whatever the forecast. SPF is of course essential, and pack a waterproof mascara, or a waterproof coat you can squeeze in your bag in case you get stuck in a downpour. A natural make up setting spray like Lily Lolo Make Up Mist will also keep make up fresh and last longer.

 

IDEAL FOR VEGGIES: THAI RED CURRY WITH WINTER MELON BY SINGHA BEER

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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IDEAL FOR VEGGIES: THAI RED CURRY WITH WINTER MELON BY SINGHA BEER

It’s Songkran this weekend, so here’s a recipe from Singha beer and Andy Oliver, head chef at Som Saa, one of the most acclaimed Thai restaurants in London to celebrate.

This is a mouth-watering classic Thai red curry recipe with a twist; winter melon and crispy tofu making it the perfect autumnal vegetarian meal. It is best served as part of a shared Thai meal along with jasmine rice and paired with a bottle (or two) of Singha beer, the original beer of Thailand.

Singha’s blend of sweet, earthy and spicy flavours to compliment the spectrum of tastes in Thai cuisine, which makes it the perfect beer for food enthusiasts to pair with all Thai curry recipes.

Serves: 2-4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 150g of vegetarian red curry paste (no shrimp paste), ideally homemade
  • 450ml of thick fresh coconut cream
  • 300ml of simple vegetable stock
  • A little coconut oil – optional extra
  • 150g of firm tofu, torn into bite sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoon of palm sugar
  • 1 pinch of maldon sea salt
  • 3 tablespoons of light soy sauce
  • 5-6 fresh or frozen makrut lime leaves
  • 1 cup of morning glory, cut into 3 inch lengths
  • 250g of winter melon, daikon or even butternut squash peeled and cut into irregular large bite sized chunks
  • 2 Thai apple aubergines, each sliced in to 6 pieces or 2 tablespoons of picked pea aubergines
  • 2-3 long red or green chillies, sliced at an angle
  • 1 large handful of picked Thai basil leaves

Method

To braise the winter melon and cook the tofu

  • Add winter melon to a pan and covering with cold water, add a generous pinch of salt and bring to the simmer
  • Allow it to simmer until just tender to the point of a knife (around 10 – 15 minutes). Drain and set aside
  • Now cook tofu by tearing it into bite sized chunks, and frying it in a deep fat fryer at 180C (or shallow frying in a pan on a medium high heat and turning it once)
  • When golden and crispy remove the tofu onto some kitchen paper

To make the curry

  • Add half the coconut cream to a pan and place on a medium high heat, option to use a splash of coconut oil here too
  • Allow the cream to boil rigorously until it becomes shiny and oily
  • When it does, add the curry paste and stir in to ‘fry out’ in this oily cream for 4 minutes on a medium heat
  • When the paste smells less raw and more fragrant and the oil is showing on the surface, add the seasonings – palm sugar, soy sauce and salt
  • Stir for another minute before adding the pea or apple aubergines, the cooked winter melon (or squash), vegetable stock, remaining coconut cream and tear in the makrut lime leaves
  • Allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes before adding the sliced chillies, fried tofu and the morning glory. Again, simmer for 2 more minutes
  • Now taste – it should be rich, fragrant and both slightly salty and sweet from and just a little shiny on top
  • Finish by stirring through the Thai basil leaves and serving

Thanks,

THE 10 BEST SANDWICHES IN THE WORLD AND THE IDEAL PLACES TO EAT THEM

Joseph Gann
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THE 10 BEST SANDWICHES IN THE WORLD AND THE IDEAL PLACES TO EAT THEM

We love sandwiches of all shapes, sizes, creeds and colours. In fact, it’s impossible to pick a favourite, so we’ve chosen ten! Here are 10 of the best sandwiches in the world and the IDEAL places to eat them.

Po Boy

Take a pillowy French roll with ultra-thin crust, fill to the brim with deep fried oysters and shrimp. Add a generous spread of Creole mayonnaise-based remoulade sauce, spicy with the kick of mustard, some crisp greens and you’re good to go. Once the food of Mardi Gras, but now found all over America, any time of year, the Po Boy is one of the top sandwiches in the world.

Eat in New Orleans, U.S.A

Banh Mi

A by-product of French colonialism, this Vietnamese sandwich seems on a mission to take over every high street on the planet. The charm lies in the unique baguette, a crisp and crunchy exterior, without being toasted, forms the husk, with a soft crumb in the middle and plenty of space for filling. Traditionally, a mix of pork belly and pork and liver pate form the backbone, with sharp pickles, spicy sauce and coriander completing the glorious mash-up. One for the vegetarians too, the Banh Mi is equally good with omlette.

Eat in Hanoi, Vietnam

B.L.T

Three iconic words and a simple, perfectly balanced grouping. The bacon must be well done, streaky and salty, the tomatoes must be whole slices – not cherry, certainly not ketchup – and the lettuce must be cold and crisp. Wonderfully refreshing and moreish – the B.L.T is a lunchtime office classic.

Eat in London, England

Pastrami and Rye

A New York institution, the Pastrami and Rye is a classic sandwich served in kosher Jewish delicatessens throughout the city. It is large and indulgent, savoury and sharp, and just perfectly balanced. In the best versions, the beef is cut thick, retaining its juices, with a peppery crust and classic accouterments of super-size gherkins and hot yellow mustard. If we were to pick one sandwich on this list, it would probably be this one.

Eat in New York, U.S.A

Left-over Roast Dinner

A rather catch-all listing, but you know exactly where we’re coming from. The best bit of the British Sunday Roast is surely the following day, where slices of yesterday’s meat, be it beef, chicken or pork, are wedged between slices of bread and enjoyed with whatever condiments you can find the fridge. Our favourite would have to be leftover, rare, roast beef, paired with rocket, a few shavings of parmesan and a handful of English baby tomatoes. Oh, and the bread should be buttered, mayo’d AND dijon’d. The sandwich feels both generous and economical – we love it.

Eat in your family home, following a delicious roast cooked by your mother

Open Sandwich

The Open Sandwich covers a multitude of one slice offerings, but we’re specifically talking about the Smorrebrod here, the Danish classic. It feels light and addictive, with the best versions juggling sweet and sharp pickle flavours with grace. Expect to find pickled herring, horseradish cream and cornichons most commonly. Dense rye-sourdough is also essential, playing the perfect foil to all of those competing sour notes.

Eat in Copenhagen, Denmark

Ploughman’s

A Ploughman’s Lunch isn’t immediately obvious as a sandwich – more a collection of fantastic British cheeses, ham, a few pickles and salad items, all on a wooden board. The pleasure is in the assembly and the variety which this leads to – one can indulge in a number of different cheeses over the course of the meal. Common knowledge dictates that we English should follow the Dane’s lead and simply use one slice of thick bread, piled high with the other treats.

Eat in a cosy country pub, Britain

Croque Madame

Decadent and unashamedly French, the Croque Madame translates as Mrs. Crunchy, but the crunch isn’t the most striking thing about this sandwich – it’s the richness and luxury that hits you first. Gruyere cheese and a generous amount of béchamel sit atop a slice of bread, with second layer of delicious ham and another slice of bread completing the sandwich. As if that wasn’t enough, on top is a fried egg, still runny, creating a feeling of real opulence in every bite. Incredible.

Eat in Paris, France

Bocadillo

Defiantly minimalist, the Bocadillo is the humble yet majestic sandwich of Cataluña – the appeal coming from the absolute premium quality of the one ingredient nestled inside the baguette. Butter is eschewed in favour of a small rubbing of olive oil. The bread is then simply furnished with a cut of superb Jamon – that’s all and that’s the magic. Equally magnificent in its clarity is the Spanish Omlette Bocadillo, the best using potato and (though hotly contested) onion, with the egg still slightly runny to provide moisture and a certain unctuousness.

Eat in Barcelona, Spain

Torta Ahogada

The final sandwich on the list hails from Mexico and is a spice and meat lover’s delight. Usually incorporating both slices of cured pork and a chili laden mincemeat, with plenty of hot sauce to boot, this is not a sandwich to eat wearing a white t-shirt. Position yourself next to fan, order a corona and tuck in!

Eat in Guadalajara, Mexico

HOTEL REVIEW: JW MARRIOTT PHU QUOC EMERALD BAY RESORT – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR A WHIMSICAL HOLIDAY

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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HOTEL REVIEW: JW MARRIOTT PHU QUOC EMERALD BAY RESORT – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR A WHIMSICAL HOLIDAY

JW MARRIOTT PHU QUOC EMERALD BAY RESORT

On the site of the now closed Lamarck university, or so the story goes, the JW Marriott Phu Quoc is built around a theme of the academic. Those former students had it good – the hotel rests on the shore of its own private bay, reputedly Phu Quoc’s best beach, with three superb restaurants catering for the discerning diner of all tastes, and lush, tastefully decorated rooms.

With every minute detail lending itself to the theme, from dusty old British tomes of Zoology and Cricket, to antique weighing scales in one its cafes, the JW Marriott is a journey of wit and whimsy and the perfect place to forget your inner city woes and indulge in utter fantasy. Escapism is very much the watchword here.

Idea

Bear with us here. The JW Marriott is based around a fictional university and none of this story is half-hearted. Every tiny component plays to the narrative. Each building is billed as ‘department’, with architecture and furnishings designed to reflect the subject of study. Botanicals and zoology have striking visual impact, with life size elephant statues looming over the entrance, and art work of animal anatomy creating an immersive experience. Ex-‘students’ with tongue in cheek names watch over you as you eat and a ‘class timetable’ is presented on arrival with activities. I’m sure you get the picture. If role play isn’t your thing however, the stunning beach and fresh local produce served in the restaurants bring plenty of rest, relaxation and replenishment.

JW MARRIOTT PHU QUOC EMERALD BAY RESORT

Location

Situated on the southern tip of Phu Quoc island, a 20 minute drive from the airport, and a short flight from Ho Chi Minh City, mainland Vietnam, the hotel is easily accessible for a short getaway. The hotel sits on a pristine beach that is perhaps the most beautiful on the island, all bright white sand and turquoise sea. Idyllic.

Décor

The JW Marriott doesn’t do things in half measures. The attention to detail and care put into the university theme is highly commendable and renowned architect Bill Bensley has executed the dream with precision. Once you learn about the theme of the hotel, you notice it everywhere you look. The lobby area sets the tone, with an enormous bronze trophy the centre piece, and endless other relics of centuries old study greeting you at every turn.

JW MARRIOTT PHU QUOC EMERALD BAY RESORT

Rooms

There are in total 243 rooms including suites and villas, all which are spacious, luxurious and downright heavenly. Pillows you can sink into and a bed which moulds itself to a figure makes it very difficult to leave.  We stayed in the Zoology department which had a sensational view of the bay at sunrise encouraging us to be early birds.  The bathroom is larger than most people’s homes, with a massive tub and sink for both him and her. The rooms have all the mod cons, you can even hookup your device to the multimedia TV.

JW MARRIOTT PHU QUOC EMERALD BAY RESORT

JW MARRIOTT PHU QUOC EMERALD BAY RESORT

Food & Drink

There are three restaurants, all offering a unique style and design. Our favourite of the trio is Red Rum, which serves up the freshest local seafood right next to the ocean. Check out our full review of it here.

Tempus Fugit, translated as time flies – very apt for this place! – hosts a breakfast so rich in choice that you’re in danger of serious over eating. Sushi, dumplings, crepes, waffles, roast beef, pork belly, croissants, cheese, charcueterie – the list could go on and on. The restaurant also serves lunch and dinner, with international offerings rubbing shoulders with Vietnamese classics.

The third joint, French & Co, pays homage to the days of French colonialism in Vietnam, with superb pastries, croque monsieurs and a fine selection of tea and coffee.

A ‘chemistry’ lesson is provided in the Department of Chemistry bar where the consumption of alcohol is given further added fun through vessels like test tubes and pipettes.

JW MARRIOTT PHU QUOC EMERALD BAY RESORT

Facilities

The Department of Sport offers both a well equipped, air conditioned gym and outdoor activities such as kayaking and yoga.

The Spa is a reason to visit in itself, with beautifully furnished rooms and a wide range of treatments on offer. Start with a sauna or steam room, then move onto a full body aromatherapy massage. Leave feeling refreshed and invigorated. A superb experience.

Why Go

The JW Marriott Phu Quoc takes escapism to a whole new level. Immerse yourself in finding a new you, and luxuriate in the nostalgia of your student days. Forget the toils of normal life and regress into your youth. A wonderful, whimsical experience.

To book visit: www.marriott.com

Disclosure: IDEAL stayed as a guest of the hotel

 

RESTAURANT REVIEW: ROTUNDA, KING’S CROSS – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR STEAK & WINE

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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RESTAURANT REVIEW: ROTUNDA, KING’S CROSS – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR STEAK & WINE

 

To survey the culinary landscape in 2018 is to look upon a map of competing, polar opposites. It’s all got a bit binary and here we are, standing at something of a crossroads; turn left for malnourishment, right for a distended stomach and inevitable gout. To follow the path of self denial, eating ‘clean’ and detoxing is certainly not for us. So it’s the other route then, with enthusiasm. Time to embrace the curves and get carnivorous, and while the prospect isn’t a particularly well rounded one, nonetheless here we are, at Rotunda.

IDEA

Buzzwords bear down on you and iconography issues forth from only a cursory glance at the restaurant’s menu.There’s a silhouette of a cow. Licks of phrases like ‘gate to plate’, ‘on site butchery’ and ‘hanging room’ jump out. It all spells meat loudly – good quality, and lots of it.

Rotunda have their own farm in Northumberland supplying all of their beef and lamb, and whilst it’s not personalised to the extent of giving their livestock names on the menu, the butcher who they keep locked up in the basement goes by Claus. Or so we’re told. With all this care describing the sourcing, they’d better be able to cook it…

LOCATION

The restaurant is a ten minute walk from King’s Cross station, and is housed in a multipurpose building which is also home to the Guardian newspaper, a live music venue and more. Rotunda sits on the far side of the building, with a terrace and view over Regent’s Canal. It’s a pleasant little spot to watch the world go by and we imagine in summer it gets very convivial indeed. Sadly, it’s winter and we make do with views of the water via floor to ceiling windows from the safety of indoors.

ATMOSPHERE

The vibe was quiet during our leisurely lunch, although not baren by any means. We wondered if the Guardian’s downsizing to tabloid had affected numbers here. Regardless, service was sharp and charming, and our request to take a look at the hanging room met with a generous, proud tour from the affable manager. Impressive and a highlight, for sure.

FOOD

We entered into our order with a resolute determination not to have four courses of cattle; this was only a weekday lunch after all and Christmas had been excessive. So to start; goat’s curd, beetroot and hazelnut, which is such a menu mainstay we wondered how it could be given fresh life. Well, it’s ubiquitous for a reason, with the curd’s piquancy given extra zip from a punchy, sharp dressing as the beetroot sweetened and soothed. Lamb sweetbreads, crumbed and deep fried, retained their characteristic, almost creamy texture and thankfully hadn’t seen much longer in the fryer. The accompanying jalapeno tartar could’ve had more jalapeno – if an ingredient is going to get billing on the menu, it should be pronounced on the palate – but it provided a good foil to the rich offal, still.

While a steak was guaranteed for mains, we sought guidance on what else worked. We were steered towards a shepherd’s pie with slow cooked lamb shoulder (from the farm). There was serious depth to the meat, and it was lent the desired ‘falling apart’ quality from the length of the cook. Seasonal greens added a little diversity to what may have otherwise become samey after a few bites.

The menu offers a choice of steaks; hanger, rump or rib eye; as well as a choice of the usual suspects, sauce wise. We go for rump as for us, flavour should always trump texture, and if it’s been hung well, this cut can’t be beaten for its deep, minerally, savoury taste. We were right to trust Rotunda to have treated their cow’s backside lovingly; the steak delivered on all it promised, with that almost blue-cheesy-depth present that a great, aged beef often has.

DRINK

A fine selection of wine is available by the glass, as well as bottle, meaning it’s possible to indulge, but with an eye on your wallet and waistline at the same time. The cocktail list is an alluring line up of carefully chosen, seasonal offerings, and as such, should come with a warning. The Frenchie Goes Around, comprising of gin, orange liqueur, lemon, lavender and prosecco, was impossible to resist. And impossible not to order a second, for that matter.

WHY GO

Yes, we know. The New Year has brought with it pledges to be healthy, abstinent and mindful about our meat consumption. But if you’re going to do it, do it occasionally, and do it well. That’s where Rotunda comes in.

Website: www.rotundabarandrestaurant.co.uk

Disclosure: IDEAL Magazine dined as a guest of the restaurant

5 IDEAL REASONS TO WEAR A SLOGAN T-SHIRT

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL REASONS TO WEAR A SLOGAN T-SHIRT

Slogan T-shirts have been around since forever and they’ve always carried some sort of message.  Today, the announcement the slogan tee makes reads like this; I’m hip, trendy and so very woke – and there’s nothing wrong with that in our eyes. 

From political views to comments heavy on the attitude and clever word play, wearers are able to broadcast all manner of message, all via a few simple words strewn across the chest. So, we’re here to celebrate the humble garment with 5 IDEAL reasons to wear a slogan T-shirt.

A FRIEND OF FEMINISM

Need to get something off your chest?  A slogan t-shirt is a literal way to get what you want to say across. Fashion and feminism haven’t always gotten along, but in this instance, they’ve become bedfellows. From protesters at the women’s march to Rihanna wearing a pink ‘this p**sy grabs back hoodie’, women are using the slogan T to express themselves in a world which often tries to keep them silent.

As The Guardian says, ‘the power of a slogan t-shirt (is) to subvert the insidious misogyny of a culture in which women tend to be visible only if attractive, and even then are seldom granted a voice’.

TO MAKE POLITICAL STATEMENTS

The slogan T’s powers of persuasion don’t stop at feminism sympathising, though. It can – and has – been used for making all kinds of political statements and is also a brilliant way to demonstrate solidarity with something you believe in. You might want to express anger at Donald Trump and support for your favourite ‘nasty woman’, or remind the world how much you hate the Daily hate Mail, and sometimes there’s no easier way to get the message out there, loud and clear, than with a T-shirt.

MAKE US STAND OUT

Slogan T-shirts are a fantastic way to make a statement, but they also, simply put, get you noticed. How many times has someone walked towards you in the street and you’ve tried desperately to read their T-shirt before they, and it, pass you by? How many times have you – and all fellow commuters – tried to sneakily read the words proudly displayed on a tube passenger’s top? Wearing a slogan T makes you stand out.

IT SHOWS YOU THE TYPE OF PERSON YOU ARE

A statement-shirt can also be ironic, amusing, cutting, bitchy, confident, and much more. It shows a sense of humour and gives licence to make jokes out of the wearer, in a self-referential, self-deprecating kinda way. As such, it makes you more approachable in the process. This can extend to pledging allegiance to bands, T.V shows and other elements of popular culture. So, whether you’re choosing life, imploring Frankie to relax or simply indicating your mate is a bit stupid, do it with a slogan T-shirt.

THEY ARE VERSATILE

Now onto the fashion part; slogan T shirts have completely taken off on the catwalk, red carpet and streets. Paired with a pair of jeans and some trainers, a tee with a slogan on is a great fashion statement, but they can also be worn with a corduroy skirt, leggings, over a dress; anyway you want, really, as they’re a really versatile garment.

4 IDEAL CAMPERVAN SITES TO VISIT AROUND THE WORLD

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL CAMPERVAN SITES TO VISIT AROUND THE WORLD

An increasing number of Brits are changing their holidaying habits and choosing a staycation on home soil as opposed to an overseas vacation. But this is nothing new to the country’s many motorhome owners. It’s an opportunity to take your ‘home’ on wheels to any location you wish; and the beauty of it? You aren’t squashed into a small tent with the rest of your family, and if it rains, it doesn’t matter because you have a roof over your head.

But with so many places claiming to be the best, deciding which sites to visit can take time. Just as motorhomes range from basic campervans and trailers to those RVs that are so fancy they give us weep-inducing envy, so do motorhome campsites.

From basic wild camping sites and family holiday parks to swish sites with pools or hot tubs, passing through sites settled into or next to forests, mountains, beaches and lakes on the way, we’ve teamed up with Audi dealership, Vindis, to give you our 4 IDEAL campervan sites to visit around the world.

Fields End Water Caravan Park, Lodges & Fishery

One of the most luxurious on our list, this adults-only (nope, nothing salubrious going on here – sadly) campsite has a five-star rating and is located in the beautiful heart of Cambridgeshire. Offering 59 touring pitches, 14 tent pitches and six luxury self-catering lodges equipped with hot tubs, it is a must-visit for those of you who appreciate a splash of opulence. For the fishing enthusiasts, there are two on-site fishing lakes to enjoy, with guaranteed peace and quiet thanks to their adults-only policy. Dogs are very much welcome, with plenty of expansive Fenland countryside to enjoy all year round.

For those of you travelling with larger than life campervans, RVs and motorhomes, Fields End Water also offers extra-large pitches. Rest assured the relaxing site can act as a great base to explore Cambridgeshire.

Hendra Holiday Park

Staying in the UK, for families of all ages, Hendra Holiday Park is a must-visit. Situated in Newquay, Cornwall, there is something fun for everyone. Surrounded by countryside and only minutes away from the beach, the park has 500 touring pitches, 500 more tent pitches and 320 holiday homes available for hire. You’ll also be pleased to hear that their toilet block facilities for campers have been awarded the ‘5* Loo of the Year’ award each year – reason alone to visit, we think!

In addition to their luxury loos, their facilities are top notch. The park has soft play, a pool complex, full entertainment both indoor and outdoor for all weathers, and several bars and restaurants. And that’s just while on site; the countryside and beaches offer even more fun for all the family.

Ocean Lakes Family Campground

Winner of the ‘RC Park of the Year’ award, Ocean Lakes is well worth the much romanticised American road trip – ranked in the top 1% of campground in America. Pretty impressive, we think. And it’s not hard to see why; situated on the oceanfront in South Carolina, USA, and stretching across one mile of oceanfront, you can camp in amongst this beautiful terrain here all year round.

With early booking available, Ocean Lakes allows you to reserve one of their 650 pitches up to 18 months in advance. With plenty of activities on offer, it’s fair to say your kids won’t be bored. From basketball and volleyball to horseshoes and outdoor pools, the fun never stops, it seems.

The list of things to do is almost limitless – located in a local area that offers national award-winning shows, more than 100 golf courses, and is home to Brookgreen Gardens — named one of the top 10 public gardens in America. It’s definitely worth taking a trip in your RV down to South Carolina.

Campsite Naturista ‘El Portús’

Head over to the Spanish region of Murcia, and soak up as much Spanish culture, sun and sea as you wish – as the Campsite Naturista ‘El Portús’ looks out onto blue seas and clifftops. With over 350 touring pitches available, there are also 60 permanent pitches up for grabs and 80 accommodation units for hire.

Offering two swimming pools – one indoor and one outdoor – as well as the nearby ocean, there’s plenty of opportunity to get your swimsuit on. Wi-fi is available, and there are snack bars, a pizzeria and a restaurant on site so you can take a break from any cooking duties on your trip.

So where will your next adventure take you? When looking for your next vacation spot, narrow your search down to your requirements to ensure you get the best site for your needs. Whether it’s child friendly, adult only or super luxurious, there will be the perfect site out there for you to visit – and don’t be afraid to venture across the ocean and enjoy the open road on foreign soil.

4 IDEAL TIME-SAVING HACKS IDEAL FOR CITY DWELLERS

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL TIME-SAVING HACKS IDEAL FOR CITY DWELLERS

Living in a city can be incredible: you have everything you need right on your doorstep, and there’s always something exciting around the corner, whatever night of the week it is. But once you factor in all the time you spend working, commuting, doing household chores, exercising and sleeping, there can be surprisingly little time left over to actually have fun exploring the city. Time is money, and very much of the essence, so, here are 4 IDEAL time-saving hacks for city dwellers.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR TIME ON PUBLIC TRANSPORT

The average British worker spends 54 minutes a day commuting. If you take public transport into work, then you probably see your commute as a time to be endured, rather than enjoyed. But using that dead time to do something productive could free up time later, and help your commute to pass more quickly.

If you travel on a train or bus service with free Wi-Fi, then your commute is a valuable time to get other tasks sorted, so spend your morning journey preparing your to-do list for the day ahead. Apps like Wunderlist will let you organise your professional and personal to-dos, and will even send you reminders about upcoming events during the day. You can even share your to-do list with others, meaning you can organise collaborative tasks with your colleagues, friends and flatmates — all before you’ve even arrived at work.

LET SOMEONE ELSE TAKE CARE OF THE LAUNDRY

The average Brit spends a whopping 102 minutes a week washing, hanging and folding laundry. And if you live in a flat without a washing machine, then that figure is likely to be much higher, as it doesn’t account for the time you have to spend trudging down to the laundrette each week.

But there’s no need to let this precious time go to waste, as there are services who will do all the hard work for you. Laundrapp’s wash and fold laundry service will collect, clean and deliver your laundry to your door, meaning you’ll have more time to spend going out and enjoying yourself (or sleeping, if that’s more your thing). Plus, you won’t have to deal with laundry racks full of wet clothes anymore; an ideal space and storage solution if you live in a compact city flat or studio.

AUTOMATE YOUR SHOPPING LIST

If you’re still writing your shopping list out by hand and taking the physical trip to the supermarket each week to do your shop, then consider how much time you could save by doing your shopping online. Most leading supermarkets have an online store that lets you save your weekly shopping list and get it delivered directly to your door. So, you won’t have to spend time each week writing a list and going to the shops — just choose a delivery time, and click send.

If you like to cook, but find that planning recipes and buying all the ingredients takes up too much time, then try a service that lets you cook without the hassle. Recipe box kits, like Gousto, allow you to pick from a list of tasty meal options, and then deliver all the ingredients you’ll need straight to your door. That means you can get on with your cooking as soon as you get home, and you won’t need to worry about dashing out to the shops because you forgot something essential.

PREP YOUR WEEKNIGHT MEALS IN ADVANCE

Even with a recipe box subscription, there’s still likely to be evenings where you’re just too tired or busy  to cook from scratch. So, it’s a good idea to cook a few back-up dinners in bulk and then freeze them for later. This way, all you’ll have to do when you get home is pop your homemade ready meal in the microwave or oven, and then you can spend the rest of your evening doing whatever you like.

Soups, curries, casseroles, pasta sauces and poultry dishes can all be cooked in bulk, and they make great meal prep options as they can be frozen for up to three months. This selection of freezer-friendly recipes from GoodFood should give you plenty of inspiration for quick midweek meals.

 

6 SECRET(ISH) PLACES IN EUROPE FOR YOUR IDEAL DESTINATION WEDDING

Editorial Team
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6 SECRET(ISH) PLACES IN EUROPE FOR YOUR IDEAL DESTINATION WEDDING

Do you daydream of a wedding with a difference, that will be remembered by you and your guests for years to come? Are you thinking about getting married abroad, somewhere unique and completely unforgettable? From caves to castles and everything that lies between, we’ve rounded up 6 secret(ish) places in Europe for your IDEAL destination wedding.

BENAGIL CAVE, PORTUGAL

Ever thought about getting hitched in a cave – nature’s very own chapel? Well it’s about time you did. Voted as one of the coolest caves, The Benagil Sea Cave (which is actually a grotto) is a place of unsurpassed beauty. At the right time of day, the sun beams through the dome, illuminating the the walls and casting incredible shadows on the sand below. That, combined with the chorus of lapping waves as your wedding soundtrack creates a mesmerising scene. To get to the cave, your wedding carriage will be a local fishing boat,  the only way to get to the cave, and what a way to arrive at your wedding, we think.

The Algar de Benagil cave I © Bruno Carlos/WikiCommons

CAVE BAR MORE, CROATIA

The Cave Bar in Lapad, housed underneath Hotel More, is just cool. The cave was only unearthed once the construction of the upscale boutique hotel was underway. Set over three levels, it can accommodate up to 60 guests and offers stunning views of the sea, with a glass floor showcasing the scenery in all its glory.

LAKE BLED CHURCH, SLOVENIA

While weddings take place in the town’s civil registry office, a blessing can be arranged at Slovenia’s Lake Bled chapel. This beautiful baroque church, decorated with frescoes and golden altar pieces, is absolutely stunning. Wedding guests are rowed across the lake to an island, where the chapel’s stone staircase awaits. Local custom dictates that the groom carry their bride up the 99 steps, preferably without pausing for breath (or a kiss).

After the wedding, you’re asked to honour the local tradition of ringing the church wishing bell. The gorgeous medieval castle and crisp, clear lake is a picture perfect backdrop for your wedding day. All great reasons to get married here, and none finer than the fact that Slovenia is the only country in the world with the world ‘love’ in it.

OXARARFOSS WATERFALL, ICELAND

The land of ice and fire is famous for many things, especially its waterfalls. Oxararfoss is a stunning waterfall located in Thingvellir National Park, and local legend says that on the night of New Year’s Eve that the water from the river Oxara turns to wine. So, if you’re planning to get married on the final day of the year, here, you’ll save a fortune on drinks!

COCHEM CASTLE, GERMANY

Nearly every bride wants her wedding to be like a fairytale, so why not celebrate your marriage in a castle? Cochem is a quintessential German medieval town, complete with it’s very own neo-gothic castle. You could even go the whole hog and celebrate with a medieval style feast – and all the imbibing, debauchery and good cheer associated with  the meal and occasion.

VICTORIA BATHS, MANCHESTER

Get married in a swimming pool? Yes, really.  A grade two listed building, this old Edwardian swimming pool is an absolutely amazing wedding and reception venue. With original features and striking architecture, the swimming pool complex has three main pool areas – perhaps one for each stage of the event? 

Originally, the first was for first class men, the next for second class men and the third for women. Fortunately, times have changed, and such a ridiculous system is now in the past. With such a choice of different spaces and backdrops for your ideal wedding, from the grandeur of the Gala Pool to the Superintendent’s Flat, Victoria Baths in Manchester provides an unforgettable setting for your big day.

7 IDEAL HISTORICAL HIDDEN SITES IN LONDON

Editorial Team
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7 IDEAL HISTORICAL HIDDEN SITES IN LONDON

There’s never a shortage of things to do and see in London. After all, the city has a history that dates back to over 2000 years ago – and a whole lot has happened during this time.  One way to take in some of the history is with a sightseeing ticket like London Pass. It gives you free entry to all the top attractions and includes a hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus tour – find out more about the London Pass here. 

While the more obvious attractions are well worth seeing, the city is full of historical sites that are easily overlooked and often hidden in plain sight. So if you’ve already toured the tower, witnessed westminster and paraded around the palace, then it’s time to go beyond the tourist filled sites. Here’s 7 IDEAL historical hidden sites in London you’ve got to see.

TINY POLICE STATION

Every day hordes of tourists and commuters pass by this blink and you’ll miss it station – but next time you find yourself in Trafalgar Square, head to the south-east corner to find this hidden treasure. This tiny police station has been around since 1926 and was built from a hollowed-out lamp post to help policemen keep an eye on protests, once upon a time a favourite pastime in Trafalgar Square.

With a direct line to Scotland Yard, this police station can surprisingly hold two prisoners at one time. Although today it’s used as a broom cupboard for the Westminster Council, Britain’s smallest police station is the ideal size and location for a selfie.  

THE CAT & MUTTON PUB

This now gastro pub was once a popular haunt for pig breeders bringing their stock down to Smithfield for slaughter. These guys and the locals use to like engaging in a game of swinging swine – and no, we’re not talking about some lewd act. This game involved grabbing a pig by its tail and hurling it as far as you can. Every week an unfortunate pig that was being herded through London Fields to the meat market would be seized and taken to the pub. Here it would have its tail greased or lathered in soap and then the locals would grab the pig by the tail, swing it round their head and throw it into the fields. Whoever succeeded in swinging it around their head for the longest would win a prize. This popular game was played for over 300 years. Today The Cat & Mutton no longer condones pig swinging games, but you can grab a beer and throw some pork scratchings down your throat instead.

Cat & Mutton Pub | © Ewan Munro/Wikicommons

SOUTHWARK GATEWAY NEEDLE

There’s a lot of debate on the actual origin of this spike. Some believe it to be a giant sundial, others say that its tilt of 19.5 degrees points to The City Church of St Magnus the Martyr. However, we prefer telling people a more gory story. According to urban legend, it has come to represent the point on the old bridge where the heads of traitors were once impaled on long wooden spears, warning anyone entering London looking to cause trouble, not to. Not for the squeamish, the heads were specially treated; parboiled and sautéed to ensure longevity. A poor sod was also employed as ‘keeper of the heads’ whose job was to make sure no relatives tried to take back their family members head – one of the strangest jobs in the city. 

*Speaking of The Church of St Magnus The Martyr, it’s well worth a visit in its own right. This largely forgotten and overlooked church contains a detailed model of Old London Bridge.

HIGHGATE CEMETERY

Opened in the 19th Century, Highgate Cemetery is the burial site for some of the most culturally significant people of our time, including Karl Marx, George Eliot and other prominent novelists, artists and political activists. It’s still a functioning burial site and alongside the gothic gravestones and catacombs lies some postmodern tombstones worth keeping an eye out for. Especially the headstone of Artist Patrick Caufield (1936-2005) which has the word ‘dead’ laser-cut into a six-foot slab of granite.

Patrick Caulfields Grave| © Nicholas Jackson/Wikicommons

MR JAMRACH’S TIGER

A tiger loose in London? It sounds like a made up children’s tale, to warn the city’s youngsters to be good little boys and girls. However in 1857 it actually happened. Back in the day, trading exotic animals was a lucrative business and Charles Jamrach was a well known dealer. Unfortunately, a large bengal tiger escaped from his emporium and ended up wandering down Betts Street near Tabacco Dock. The tiger came across a nine-year old boy (who tried to stroke the animal) and clamped him between his jaws. The story goes that Mr Jamrach came to the boys rescue and wrestled the boy free. There is now a statue commemorating the event at the entrance of Tobacco Dock – which is now a popular events space with all sorts of foodie events happening throughout the year.   

THE SEVEN NOSES OF SOHO

Walking through the streets of London and Soho is never dull, but for some extra intrigue, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the Seven Noses of Soho. Found protruding from the walls in incongruous and unexpected places, these are plaster of Paris reproductions of artist Rick Buckley’s nose. In a protest against the appearance of CCTV cameras and the Big Brother State, Buckley placed these casts under the noses of the cameras. The event was not publicised, so urban myths grew to explain the appearance of the noses. One story tells of the Seven Noses of Soho, which would give great fortune to those who found them all.

Arch Nose| © Colonel Warden/Wikicommons

 

41 CLOTH FAIR

Down a small street in Farringdon lies the city of London’s oldest house. Built between 1597 and 1614, it’s hard to believe this remarkable house is still standing – it survived both the Great Fire of London and The Blitz. It’s full of interesting glimpses into the past and etched with a diamond, in a set of the houses leaded windows, are the signatures of some of the houses most famous visitors including Sir Winston Churchill and the Queen Mother. Check out this post on inews.co.uk by the current owner to learn more about the fascinating history of this building.

REVIEW: HOTEL CASABLANCA NEW YORK – THE IDEAL PLACE TO STAY IN THE HEART OF TIMES SQUARE

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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REVIEW: HOTEL CASABLANCA NEW YORK – THE IDEAL PLACE TO STAY IN THE HEART OF TIMES SQUARE

Times Square. If you ask real New Yorker’s what it’s like, most will roll their eyes and say it’s a tourist trap. But others will say it’s the heart of the city. We say that – ignoring the noise and pollution – it’s a pretty impressive spectacle. The bustling square really does make you think bright lights, big city, and big possibilities. It’s a place that assaults your senses with its riot of tourists, honking car horns, shouting vendors, flashing neon lights and giant digital billboards. Times Square is brash, bright and unforgettable.

Did you know that approximately 330,000 people pass through Times Square daily (most of them tourists)? That’s about about 42 million visitors a year and nearly 8.52 million of those people see a Broadway show. And if you’re one of those 42 million visitors to Times Square, you’ll need a hotel to rest your weary but excited head that isn’t far away. Well, look no further than Hotel Casablanca.

IDEA

An intimate European-style, family-owned boutique hotel in New York City’s most popular location; with Times Square and other famous Big Apple attractions just a stone’s throw away. What more could you want from an urban weekend hotel?

hotel-casablanca-new-york-2

LOCATION

Situated in the heart of Times Square and the city’s theatre district, it’s smack bang in the middle of Manhattan’s best sightseeing attractions, boutiques, restaurants and nightclubs. And if you need to hop in a cab or take the subway to whisk you up or downtown, that’s easy. Times Square is a major transportation hub of New York City. Many of the city’s subway lines run through the 42nd Street Times Square Station and you can easily catch a bus or airport shuttle on 42nd Street and 8th Avenue.

hotel-casablanca-5

DECOR

Like all good boutique hotels, Casablanca has it’s own identity. Inspired by the romance of the movie of the same name, this absolutely lovely New York townhouse has been artfully refurbished into a charming six story boutique hotel.  The decor is full of character and retains a rather theatrical air, which feels fitting for the hotel’s central location. Think Moroccan motifs, mirrors and mosaics, chic wooden paneling and wooden blinds.

hotel-casablanca-bedroom

ROOMS

Times Square buzzes with energy from early morning to late at night and the bright lights never get turned off. Luckily the guys at the hotel had this in mind when designing their suites, and have fitted each room with blackout blinds (thank you kindly or a perfect night’s sleep Casablanca!). The rooms are a good size with custom furnishings including old fashioned ceiling fans that make you feel like you’ve been transported back to 1942,  stylish wicker chairs and wooden window shutters.

Given the hotel’s location in the heart of Times Square, all of the rooms are surprisingly quiet, however noise levels vary depending on the type of room you have. Request a room located towards the inside of the hotel if you want a quieter night. However, this is Times Square folks and there’s a certain charm to the feeling of being amongst the action.

FOOD & DRINK

The endless coffees and pastries at this hotel are a good thing. These complimentary refreshments, alongside other treats, are available for the taking in the clubroom throughout the day. A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily in Rick’s Café, featuring everything from hard-boiled eggs and whole wheat toast to mini-muffins, and of course bagels with cream cheese – this is New York after all.

hotel-casablanca-breakfast

Rick’s also hosts a wine & cheese reception every evening from 5pm-8pm and guests can enjoy live piano music on Friday nights – just try to refrain yourself from saying ‘Play it again Sam’.

If you’re after a good meal, head to on-site  restaurant Tony’s di Napoli Restaurant. If you don’t fancy Italian, worry not. Times Square alone is home to more than 200 restaurants and countless small eating establishments.

hotel-casablanca-wine-and-cheese

WHY GO?

To stay in a lovely boutique hotel right in the heart of Times Square is a surprisingly tall ask. But Casablanca is the perfect spot for tourists, sightseers, theatregoers and those on business alike. Fantastic!

For more information visit: www.casablancahotel.com

IDEAL stayed as a guest of Hotel Casablanca

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